Demolition begins to make way for viaduct replacement

The state Transportation Department intends to begin demolishing two buildings on state property near Qwest Field on Tuesday. That will create space for construction projects to replace the Alaskan Way Viaduct.

Crews will demolish a 40,000-square-foot warehouse and 10,000-square-foot office building on the west side of First Avenue between South Royal Brougham Way and South Dearborn Street. The demolition, which will occur from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. on weekdays, is expected to last through June.

Roads won’t be closed, but truck traffic will increase. The Transportation Department has been working with social service agencies to help homeless people who might be affected.

Crews will use to the space as a staging area to replace a mile of the viaduct between South Holgate Street and South King Street.